NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — On Tuesday night, five cyclists were tragically killed in Kalamazoo, Michigan, by a hit-and-run driver while out on a group ride. Cycling is a growing trend in New Orleans, with restaurants opening just to cater to cyclists needs. Wes Mcwhorter, owner of the CBD’s new cafe Rouler, which serves as a cafe as well as repair shop for cyclists, spoke to the impact the tragic accident has on our community.
“These were individuals that were out on a group ride in the evening with their friends. That’s like us almost every single night around here,” Mcwhorter said.
Mcwhorter said the most important thing about sharing the road is that motorists and cyclists be mindful of one another.
“A lot of people think that just because we run a bike-related business that we always come down on the side of bikes,” he explained. “I’m a big advocate of shared responsibility and accountability.”
In the last few years the city has become more bike-friendly by installing an extensive series of bike lanes. Rouler is focused on keeping a cohesive relationship between cyclists and non-cyclists, and the atmosphere is welcoming to all.
“Our menu is designed to be nutritious and delicious. It’s more-or-less built out for breakfast. We’ve got pastries, we’ve got a lunch menu with sandwiches and salads and that sort of thing, and we have a happy hour as well; we have beer and wine,” said Mcwhorter, who noted that happy hour and cycling is not encouraged.
Whether it be a place to hold business meetings or the place to get your bike fixed, Rouler in the spirit of cooperation welcomes everyone.